With the back-to-school season quickly approaching, students are beginning to return to colleges and universities across the nation, and the relatively quiet campus streets are becoming more and more clogged with traffic. Faculty and students alike are probably aware of the issues that go along with this increase: more auto and pedestrian accidents, longer drive times, difficulties finding parking, and a whole host of other issues that arise with so many vehicles in a concentrated area. It can be a frustrating situation, but there are several things that can be done to reduce traffic issues and prevent accidents and delays.

Limit Campus Driving to Upperclassmen and Commuters

Although it is not always a popular idea with students, many colleges and universities have policies preventing freshman from having a parking spot if they live on campus. This reduces the overall number of vehicles vying for space to park, and it also means less traffic on the streets. If a student lives off campus, then a vehicle might be necessary, but for most freshman living in a dorm, it’s a luxury. Consider this option if the amount of traffic is the biggest issue.

Reduce and Enforce Campus Speed Limits

Depending on the current limits, it might be a good idea to reduce speed limits for all on-campus traffic. This could possibly lessen the number of auto and pedestrian accidents that occur and could add to overall campus safety. Traffic traveling at a lower rate of speed may make drive times longer, but it may be worth it. In addition, speed limits don’t make a lot of difference to students if they are not enforced. Make sure students and staff no the penalties for breaking the speed limit and follow through with these penalties. If it is well-known that speeding will not be tolerated, drivers are more likely to abide by the limits set for them.

Increase Parking Spaces

One of the biggest complaints about on-campus traffic is the lack of parking. It’s extremely frustrating to arrive at your class or dorm and not be able to find a space to leave your car. If parking is a problem, consider creating extra spaces. Perhaps there are some open, unused areas of campus that could be put to a more practical use. In addition, consider issuing parking permits that designate student and faculty parking areas only and relegate a fewer number of spaces to guests.

Driving on campus can be difficult, but following some of these tips could help to make your school a safer and easier place to get around. Students and staff will all benefit from less traffic issues.

References

https://www.universitybusiness.com/article/go-flow-campus-traffic-and-parking-solutions

https://www.daveabels.com/pedestrian-accidents.html

https://transportation.georgetown.edu/campus-traffic-rules

https://www.pugetsound.edu/about/offices-services/security-services/campus-parking-traffic-and-tra/